Wilmington, OH – Temperatures will surge to near 80°F by late Thursday afternoon across much of Ohio, creating unstable conditions that could disrupt travel and utilities as strong storms develop after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, highs will reach 77°F in Columbus, 80°F in Dayton, and up to 83°F in Cincinnati between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday—more than 20 degrees above normal for late March. Storm timing is expected between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m., beginning north of I-70 before shifting south toward the Ohio River overnight.
The greatest risk zone includes Dayton, Columbus, Wilmington, and Cincinnati, where a slight risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather is in place. Cities along I-71 and I-75 corridors could see storms capable of damaging wind gusts and brief heavy rainfall that may reduce visibility below a half mile at times.
Drivers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions late Thursday night, especially on I-70, I-75, and U.S. 35. Charge devices ahead of time and secure loose outdoor items before 7 p.m. as winds increase.
Storm chances will diminish toward early Friday morning, but additional updates and alerts are likely as the system approaches.
